Barack visited New Hampshire this week for the eighteenth time, spending three days in the Granite State. He talked to more than 1,700 New Hampshire voters, continuing to answer their questions with straight-forward, honest answers and demonstrate the strong, principled leadership that we need to bring about real change.
He also signed up nearly 2,000 new volunteers in neighboring Massachusetts after winning Governor Deval Patrick’s endorsement as the best candidate to stand up to the conventional thinking in Washington.
Sheila Muse of Nashua sat down with the Senator to discuss his middle class tax fairness plan at a roundtable in Nashua on Monday. “Plenty of politicians say they want to know what regular people care about, but Obama actually sat down and had a real discussion with us,” she said. “He answered every question with a clear answer and I felt like he really understood what average Americans care about. He seemed really honorable and ethical. He would be good for our country.”
Heading from Nashua to Concord, Barack filed to officially appear on the New Hampshire ballot. He signed the Notice to Voters, “It’s time for a real change,” before joining more than 1,000 voters on the State House lawn to talk about the kind of unifying leadership he offers. After the rally, Peterborough resident Virginia Brown said “It feels so great to finally be voting for someone, and not simply against someone.”
Tuesday, Barack continued his discussion with voters in a smaller setting. At a traditional New Hampshire house party in Merrimack, resident Marc Courchesne said, “He’s just so honest and accessible. Obama answers questions very directly, it really sets him apart from the other candidates in the race.”
Barack wrapped up his visit on Wednesday, returning from a Senate vote earlier that morning to speak with Dover residents about his vision for real change. At a Meet the Candidate event at the McConnell Center, Kyle McAdam of Farmington noted, “He’s very honest and direct. That’s the biggest difference between Obama and the other candidates.”
Standing in Portsmouth Public Library – New Hampshire’s first LEED-certified green municipal building – Barack laid out his vision to restore America as a global leader on energy.
An introductory video featured audio recordings of every President since Richard Nixon promising changes in energy policy – promises that never materialized. Barack cited his own record of leadership in standing up to special interests, challenging conventional thinking, and building consensus for change as proof that he can break the Washington gridlock that has prevented fundamental change on energy policy:
The truth is, our energy problem has become an energy crisis because no matter how well-intentioned the promise – no matter how bold the proposal – they all fall victim to the same Washington politics that has only become more divided and dishonest; more timid and calculating; more beholden to the powerful interests that have the biggest stake in the status quo.There are some in this race who actually make the argument that the more time you spend immersed in the broken politics of Washington, the more likely you are to change it. I always find this a little amusing. I know that change makes for good campaign rhetoric, but when these same people had the chance to actually make it happen, they didn’t lead. When they had the chance to stand up and require automakers to raise their fuel standards, they refused. When they had multiple chances to reduce our dependence on foreign oil by investing in renewable fuels that we can literally grow right here in America, they said no.
The truth is, our energy problem has become an energy crisis because no matter how well-intentioned the promise – no matter how bold the proposal – they all fall victim to the same Washington politics that has only become more divided and dishonest; more timid and calculating; more beholden to the powerful interests that have the biggest stake in the status quo.
There are some in this race who actually make the argument that the more time you spend immersed in the broken politics of Washington, the more likely you are to change it. I always find this a little amusing. I know that change makes for good campaign rhetoric, but when these same people had the chance to actually make it happen, they didn’t lead. When they had the chance to stand up and require automakers to raise their fuel standards, they refused. When they had multiple chances to reduce our dependence on foreign oil by investing in renewable fuels that we can literally grow right here in America, they said no.
Barack set forth a comprehensive plan to combat global climate change, free us from our dependence on foreign oil, create new jobs and industries, and give America the credibility to call for a global effort to become more energy efficient. Barack’s plan consists of the following:
Portsmouth City Councilor Ned Raynolds, an expert on energy and environmental policy, was one of the chief proponents of making the library a green building. Today’s speech prompted him to sign on to the campaign:
This was the speech I’ve been waiting for a candidate to give for ten years. I’m very impressed that he had the courage to challenge the car companies and businesses and American people to move beyond a carbon-based economy…And I’m impressed that he’s willing to lead – truly lead – on these issues and emphasize the importance of these issues to restoring American leadership in the world.
You can read the full plan here (PDF).
And check out early positive reactions here.
Congressman Hodes signs the wall in our new Derry Office
Getting a bright and early start at 8:30 AM, Congressman Paul Hodes joined Obama staff and supporters yesterday at “opening parties” for our three newest campaign offices – in Derry, Peterborough, and Lebanon.
Hodes stressed the importance of grassroots organizing, saying “This election is going to be won in offices like this, on the ground…With neighbors talking to neighbors.”
He emphasized the urgency of this election at this moment in history, citing the importance of issues from Iraq to healthcare to battles over voting rights:
We don’t have time for little change. It’s time for real change… I feel personally, I feel deeply that this is the time, and this is the man to take our country where we need to go...I ask you to come with me to vote for Obama, to vote for the 21st century for our country.
Supporters mingle in Peterborough
Congressman Hodes in Peterborough
Karlene, a volunteer from Hancock, was at the Peterborough event. She says she finds the campaign is “bringing in new people and new blood to politics” and her neighbors are taking notice. So far, she said, the campaign has been an incredibly grassroots effort and “it’s only going to grow bigger and bigger.”
Londonderry resident Stacy, who attended the Derry event, has never volunteered for a political campaign before because “I never had someone I totally believed in before.” For her, Barack is that someone and with a campaign office so close to her home, Stacy plans to get even more active.
You can find your local office by clicking here.
Having flown 274 missions over Iraq during Desert Storm and commanded Task Force West during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Major General Scott Gration (USAF, Ret.) knows a thing or two about the kind of judgment and experience America needs in its next Commander in Chief. Residents at the Villa Crest Nursing and Retirement Center took note when he visited today and shared his reasons for supporting Barack.
Gration began his visit by thanking the many World War II veterans in the crowd for their service and contribution to the freedoms we enjoy today. He then turned to his own service, including the time he spent briefing Barack and other Senators on military affairs:
[Obama] was a quick study who understood the issues… He has a deep sense of history, and with his background as a constitutional law professor, he understands the values the framers were talking about.
The General – who was raised in the Congo as the son of missionaries and whose first language is Swahili – also regaled the audience with tales of his time touring Africa with Barack. In particular, he cited Barack’s honest discussion with the President of Kenya about corruption in that country as a sign of Obama’s “courage to take on the tough issues.”
“My experience serving with [Barack] convinced me that he is absolutely the best person to be president and Commander in Chief right now,” Gration offered.
“He has the judgment, courage, and experience that counts. And most importantly, he has a vision for America that will not only bring our country together but lead again in the world.”
Responding to a question from Lionel, a Villa Crest Resident and World War II Air Force veteran, about America’s fallen image abroad, he added, “Barack understands that international problems require international solutions. Just like he will bring Americans together, he will bring nations together to solve problems.”
After the event, Lionel lamented that America had strong allies during the time that he served, yet today seems to be going it alone. He was encouraged to hear from General Gration about Barack’s vision and focus on rebuilding our international ties.
Stepping off the set of CSI: NY and onto the stage at Phillip-Exeter's Fischer Theater today, Hill Harper spoke to more than 50 students and local residents about why he is "passionate about what Barack is going to do for the country."
Drawing on their personal relationship as classmates at Harvard Law School, Harper stressed Barack's authenticity, character, and outside-the-Beltway experience.
He reminded the group that while most presidents of the Harvard Law Review go on to prestigious clerkships and lucrative corporate law jobs, Barack chose to return to Chicago to run a voter registration drive. Harper particularly praised Barack's time as a constitutional law professor, saying, "[Barack] has a real knowledge of and respect for the ideals this country was built on."
Tori, a Phillips-Exeter student, appreciated the personal insight:
With politicians, it's sometimes hard to know who they really are. One of the things I like about Barack is that he seems very authentic. It was nice to hear someone who knows Barack personally confirm that.
Harper also urged the students to take advantage of New Hampshire's unique role in selecting our next president:
You have the opportunity to impact who is the next president of the United States, how many high school students can do that?
After the event, Emma, one of the leaders of the Phillips-Exeter Democrat Club, said she expects the students will take an active role in helping to elect Barack.
More than 40 students and young adults came together yesterday for our iCHANGE Back to School Kickoff canvass. Knocking on doors in neighborhoods around Keene and Manchester, the students shared their belief in Barack’s message of change in face-to-face conversations with New Hampshire voters.Michael, a Windham resident and St. Anselm’s College student said he decided to canvass today because “this is going to be such an important election, and Obama has the right approach to problems to be president.”Adding to the day’s experience was the debut of our Obama Mobile text messaging in New Hampshire. Throughout the day, canvassers received helpful hints and interacted with campaign staff via text message.Tufts freshman Logan said, “It was motivational. It felt like there was someone else with you.”Rob had a briefer endorsement: “Pretty cool.”The whole group seemed to agree that their favorite tip that they received by text message reminded them to “Smile -- you’re the face of the campaign.”“It was a welcome reminder out there after a long day of canvassing,” Chelsea chimed in.You can sign up for updates with the campaign about events and TV appearances by texting “NH” to OBAMA (62262).
Our popular iCHANGE youth organizing effort returns tomorrow with a Back-to-School Kickoff canvass.
In New Hampshire, nothing is more valuable than face-to-face contact, and personally sharing our belief in Barack Obama’s ability to bring about the change we need in our country. Students and young adults will congregate in Manchester and Keene at noon to knock on doors and share their enthusiasm for Barack.
iCHANGE debuted in Manchester in June and made its way to Portsmouth in July. The first event was a huge success and led to this video:
We’re kicking things up a notch this time. By texting “IC” to OBAMA (62262), participants will be able to receive updates and canvassing tips throughout the day.
We hope to see many of you tomorrow!
In January of 1961, John F. Kennedy delivered an inaugural address that inspired a generation to shake off its cynicism and to take ownership of its common destiny. Nearly a half century later, one of the principle architects of that speech sees a leader ready to inspire a new generation to believe.
Ted Sorensen, who served as one of JFK’s closest advisors and primary speechwriter, was in New Hampshire yesterday to discuss his support of Barack Obama and the parallels he sees between Obama and Kennedy.
Speaking at stops throughout the state, Sorensen told audiences that his chief desire is to leave a better world for his children and grandchildren. To achieve that better world, “we have to change direction, we have to change our course and Obama is the one candidate who I think can most do that.”
Recalling that so much of Kennedy’s ability to effect positive change stemmed from his ability to inspire action, Sorensen explained:
Obama is someone who has that unique ability – more than anybody since Kennedy – to speak from the heart, to inspire people, to talk about the future, to give hope to those who haven’t had it.
During a Q&A session, one attendee remarked, “Several months ago, I had the opportunity to see Barack Obama speak, and the first thought that came to mind was how much he reminded me of Kennedy.”
Sorensen embraced the comparison:
I see Obama as the candidate of hope and change in the same way that Kennedy was the candidate of hope and change… Like Kennedy, [he has] not only wonderful charm, but excellent judgment… Above all, Obama – like Kennedy – has judgment.
Citing the 2008 election as perhaps the most important of his long tenure in politics, Sorensen concluded:
Next January the roll is going to be called. And in New Hampshire, to choose a Democratic nominee for president is the single most important choice you will face as a citizen, perhaps, in your life time. And I hope when that roll is called folks here…will answer that call with a strong ‘AYE’ for Barack Obama.
After an event at Pleasant View Retirement Community in Concord, Gail, a Concord resident, remembered hearing Sorensen speak in the 1960s. His thoughtful eloquence, she said, remained unchanged, adding, “He definitely moved me toward Obama.”
In an open living room overlooking the shimmering Portsmouth Harbor, a mix of supporters and undecided voters convening for a Women for Obama meeting had the chance to hear from one of Barack’s longest-standing and most ardent supporters.
As the Democrats’ Chief Deputy Whip and a member of the House Select Committee on Intelligence, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky is at the center of the debates on health care and the war in Iraq. She shared her insight into why, “as a woman and a feminist,” Barack is her candidate:
Part of the reason it’s so difficult to move an agenda that supports women and families is because politics are so polarized. That polarization affects everyone, but let’s be honest – often women and families are affected the most. Barack is a leader with a proven capacity to bring people together around a progressive agenda.
Part of the reason it’s so difficult to move an agenda that supports women and families is because politics are so polarized. That polarization affects everyone, but let’s be honest – often women and families are affected the most.
Barack is a leader with a proven capacity to bring people together around a progressive agenda.
During their shared time in the Illinois State Legislature, she said, “Barack was able to work magic with bi-partisanship, working across the aisle to tackle tough issues like the broken death penalty system."
And she expressed confidence that Barack could bring similar magic to the oval office and the international stage:
There’s a certain intangible with Barack. The American people are longing to feel hope and pride and optimism. People want to have a vision of America that makes them feel optimistic and proud in a realistic way.
Schakowsky – who, like Barack, entered public life as a community organizer in Chicago – concluded the meeting by urging the guests to take organizing into their own hands by talking to their friends, family, and neighbors about why Barack is the right choice for women and for America.
For all of his life, Ryan Gray has heeded the call of duty. Duty to his country led him to enlist in the Marine Corps and volunteer to serve in Iraq. Duty to his fellow Marines compelled him to volunteer for a second tour.
Having left active duty, Ryan follows the call of another duty, as a father and a husband. Though his love for his country is undiminished, Ryan is committed to ensuring that his 3-month old son, Sean, grows up with a devoted father to guide him.
Ryan is also a member of the Obama for New Hampshire Veterans Steering Committee.
This is his story.
Barack made news yesterday by laying out his plan to end the war in Iraq and address the humanitarian crisis there.
The New York Times reported “Obama Offers Most Extensive Plan Yet for Winding Down War”.
The plan also garnered attention for continuing to illustrate the real change and new thinking he’ll bring to Washington.
The Cedar Rapids Gazette noted: Just as it's time to turn the page in Iraq, Obama seemed to say it's time to turn the page in Washington. He is calling for an end to the ‘politics of division and conventional Washington thinking that first led us into Iraq.’
And Blue Hampshire blogger and undecided New Hampshire voter Elwood had this review:
The speech is very eloquent - in a way that cheers me in terms not only of his strengths as a candidate, but also of his thoughtfulness and willingness to challenge conventional wisdom…This speech made me more favorable toward and comfortable with Senator Obama.
You can watch a portion of the speech below, and also read the complete text.
Barack continued his leadership in opposition to the Iraq war today with a major policy address. He outlined his plan to end the war and called for a new surge in diplomacy devoid of the Washington conventional thinking that led us into the greatest foreign policy disaster of a generation.
Following the speech, bloggers nationwide, including from Blue Hampshire and Granite Grok, were invited to discuss the strategy with two Obama foreign policy advisors -- renowned Human Rights expert and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, Samantha Power, and former Clinton Administration Deputy Secretary of Defense, Sarah Sewall via a conference call.
On the call, Power and Sewall lauded Barack for rejecting the Bush Administration’s narrow framing of the debate and addressing Iraq in a broader foreign policy context.
Power began by expressing frustration with the oversimplification that our options only include “suspend[ing] judgment until the surge has demonstrably failed” or believing “that if we leave, there will be no consequences or the consequences are not our problem.”
“It was classic Senator Obama,” Sewall added, “to challenge conventional wisdom and refusing to get trapped in the administration’s false dichotomy.”
Power and Sewall also praised Barack’s judgment in recognizing that the humanitarian crisis in Iraq is escalating into a strategic crisis that is destabilizing neighboring countries as well.
Lamenting that “we’ve been focusing on Iraq a la carte,” Power praised Barack’s commitment to “diplomacy in the region, engaging Iran and Syria and not being afraid to do so just because you may not agree with the character of the regimes.”
Sewall expanded:
“By and large, the political response has been one of accepting terms of the debate…and talking about the timing of desurging rather than more broadly thinking about ‘what are American interests in the region as a whole’…
[Obama] has elevated up to the strategic questions and the questions about prioritization and interests.”
On Thursday, participants of our popular From Doubt to Hope book club series joined a conference call with Barack’s sister, Maya Soetoro-Ng. Maya, a high school teacher in Honolulu, Hawaii, provided additional context to the story of Barack’s formative years by answering questions about Barack’s childhood, their family, and education and politics in general.
When asked about their family’s years overseas, Maya explained, “Life in Indonesia was very interesting. Many of the experiences there gave Barack a richness of perspective and understanding of people from world’s that are very different from our own.”
Maya Soetoro-Ng with her husband, Konrad Ng
Jeanette, a book club host from Nashua, noted that in the preface to the 2004 edition of Dreams from my Father, Barack wrote that had he known his mother would not survive her battle with ovarian cancer, he would have included more about her. She wondered what such a book would have revealed about Barack’s mother.
Maya was happy to offer insight into her mother’s impressive career overseas working for change and bettering the lives of others. She also stressed her incredible empathy, which served as a motivating factor for her life’s work. “She imparted on us that a life that doesn’t involve service is not much of a life… All people have the same hopes and so much of the same promise.”
Maya pointed to the fact that she and Barack grew up with “friends and family literally all over the world” as a source for his tremendous ability to connect with people from other backgrounds and negotiate with people from different viewpoints. The experience of interacting with his international and multicultural family “required negotiation, and respect, and ability to communicate. And he’s had to nurture those skills from birth. They were not something that he developed as a political skill.”
After a summer of delving into the life of Barack Obama, hearing Maya’s firsthand account of her brother’s upbringing proved an invaluable insight to who he is and what kind of a president he will be.
